University of Birmingham medical students score a winner at Birmingham City FC youth tournament

Football fans had an opportunity to get a free health check from University of Birmingham medical students at the finals of Birmingham City Football Club’s (BCFC) youth football tournament - the Trevor Francis Memorial Cup.  

With the University sponsoring the city-wide secondary schools’ competition, the health checks which included blood pressure testing were available to everyone throughout the day in the fan zone at St Andrews @ Knighthead Park alongside a host of other activities.

Year 9 pupils from Birmingham and Solihull battled it out in the knockout rounds, which included the quarter finals played on sports pitches at the University’s Edgbaston campus.

The boys’ final saw Tudor Grange Academy emerge victorious after beating Park Hall 3-2, while the girls’ final crowned Plantsbrook School as champions after their thrilling 4-1 victory against Bartley Green. The matches followed semi-finals held at Knighthead Performance Centre – the women’s and academy training ground where England national stars Jude Bellingham and Karen Carney previously played.

Sponsored by the University of Birmingham, the competition launched last year as part of a strategic partnership established to mark the 125th and 150th anniversaries respectively of the University and BCFC.

As well as providing branded kits and match balls for the wider competition, the University supported character-education workshops inspired by Trevor Francis’ values (dedication, humility, and resilience) - reflecting the University’s broader mission to empower young people through sport and education.

Learning more about Higher Education

Teams taking part in the finals also had the opportunity to learn more about broadening their horizons through Higher Education. The Kop car park was transformed into a mini family fun day with inflatable games, sports coaching, and refreshments.

Professor Deborah Longworth, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) at the University of Birmingham said: “What a marvellous day watching these talented young footballers getting the opportunity to play in front of families and friends on the pitch where Trevor Francis inspired previous generations.

“The University of Birmingham is very much a civic university and we are committed to supporting our city community. I am delighted that a number of students volunteered their time to support the day, including members of our University Football Club who gave inspirational pre-match talks to the teams, two students who acted as match presenters for the day, and medical students who were on hand to provide families with health advice.

“We have a long and proud history of backing sporting success. This competition reflects the goal the University shares with our partners at Birmingham City FC to inspire young people across the city and region to greater sporting and academic heights.” 

The tournament was developed by the Trevor Francis Legacy Committee and the BCFC Foundation. Last year’s inaugural champions, Bishop Challoner and Arden Academy, were celebrated in a trophy ceremony at St Andrews led by Professor Longworth. 

With funding secured until 2029, thanks to the University’s generous support, the Trevor Francis Memorial Cup is set to become a cornerstone of youth sport in Birmingham, honouring a footballing icon while building a brighter future for the city’s young people. 

Anthony Ishwerwood, BCFC Foundation Director, said: “The Trevor Francis Schools Cup has been a fantastic celebration of football, bringing together under 14s students from schools across the Midlands in the spirit of competition, teamwork and respect.

“Through the support of the University of Birmingham, this tournament has provided young people with an opportunity to develop not only their footballing skills, but also important character skills such as resilience, confidence and leadership.

“It has been inspiring to see the enthusiasm, determination and sportsmanship on display throughout the competition, and we are proud to support an event that continues to honour Trevor Francis' legacy whilst creating positive experiences for the next generation.

“Congratulations to Plantsbrook and Tudor Grange Academy Solihull on their outstanding achievements in this year's competition. Their success is a testament to the hard work, teamwork and determination shown throughout the tournament, and they should be incredibly proud of their accomplishments."